The UK Child Dependent Visa allows children to join their parent(s) or legal guardian(s) who are settled in the UK or are British citizens. This visa category is for children under the age of 18 who are not living an independent life and who will be supported financially by their parent(s) or legal guardian(s) in the UK. 

Here's a detailed overview of the requirements for obtaining a UK Child Dependent Visa: 

Eligibility Criteria  

1. Parental Relationship Requirement: The child must be the biological child, adopted child, or stepchild of the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) who are settled in the UK or British citizens.  
2. Parental Status: The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) in the UK must be settled in the UK or British citizens. They must be able to provide evidence of their status, such as a settlement visa or British citizenship certificate.  
3. Dependency Requirement: The child must not be leading an independent life and must be dependent on the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) financially. This includes providing evidence that the child is financially supported by the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) and does not have their own independent income or means of support.  
4. Accommodation Requirement: The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) in the UK must provide adequate accommodation for the child without relying on public funds. The accommodation must meet the UK's housing standards and not be overcrowded.  
5. Intentions to Live Together: The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) in the UK and the child must intend to live together as a family in the UK. They need to provide evidence of their relationship and intentions to live together, such as joint financial commitments, correspondence, and photos together.  
6. Immigration History: The child must have a clean immigration history, meaning they have not breached any UK immigration laws or been refused entry to the UK.  
7. Health Requirement: The child may need to undergo a tuberculosis (TB) test if they are applying from a country where TB is prevalent. They must also disclose any serious health conditions that could require costly medical treatment in the UK.  

Application Process  

1. Prepare Documentation: Gather all necessary documents to support the application, including evidence of the parent-child relationship, financial support from the parent(s) or legal guardian(s), accommodation details, and proof of intentions to live together.  
2. Complete Online Application: Apply online through the UK government's visa application website. Fill out the application form accurately, providing all required information.  
3. Biometric Appointment: Schedule and attend a biometric appointment at a designated visa application centre to have fingerprints and a photograph taken.  
4. Submit Supporting Documents: Upload scanned copies of supporting documents online or submit them at the visa application centre.  
5. Pay Fees: Pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) if applicable.  
6. Attend Interview (if required): In some cases, children may be required to attend an interview as part of the application process.  
7. Wait for Decision: Once the application and supporting documents are submitted, wait for a decision on the visa application. Processing times can vary depending on the location and individual circumstances.  
8. Receive Decision: If approved, the child will receive a visa vignette in their passport, allowing them to travel to the UK.  
9. Enter the UK: Once the visa is issued, the child can travel to the UK within the validity period of the visa.  

Conclusion  

Obtaining a UK Child Dependent Visa involves meeting various eligibility criteria, providing supporting documentation, and following the application process outlined by the UK government. By understanding and fulfilling the requirements, children can increase their chances of a successful visa application and join their parent(s) or legal guardian(s) in the United Kingdom.